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DNR extends elk hunt until Jan. 20

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is extending the hunting season for elk in northwestern Minnesota.

The DNR says only six elk were killed during hunts in September and December. Sixteen hunters were unsuccessful.

DNR big game program leader Leslie McInenly said that hunters will have a chance to try again for the next week. The extended season runs from Jan. 12 to Jan. 20.

"The reason we're extending the hunt if for population management purposes," McInenly said. "We really are working hard to follow the intent of our elk management plan, which is really focused on increasing landowner acceptance of elk on the landscape and monitoring the population and managing it at this limited level."

Minnesota law says an elk hunt can be allowed any time the population exceeds 20 animals. The DNR estimates the population is now 80 to 120 animals.

The animals are found only in the northwestern part of the state.

The current elk management plan expires in 2015. After that, McInenly says the long-term goal will be to increase the size of the elk herd.